India are in a must-win situation in the second T20I against Ireland after losing the series opener by 34 runs in Belfast. Chasing 183, the visitors were bowled out for 148 in 18.5 overs. With the series on the line, Team India could make a few changes for the final match.
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Likely To Be Left Out Again
Young batter Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who has been waiting for his debut, is expected to miss out once more. According to ABP Live, the team management is unlikely to hand him his first cap in this crucial match. The decision comes despite India's batting collapse in the first game.
Probable India Playing XI for 2nd T20I
India are expected to stick with a similar core but may shuffle the batting order. As reported by ESPNcricinfo, the probable XI includes:
- Sanju Samson (wicketkeeper)
- Abhishek Sharma or Vaibhav Sooryavanshi — but Sooryavanshi is likely to sit out
- Ishan Kishan
- Shreyas Iyer (captain)
- Tilak Varma
The lineup suggests India will rely on experienced batters to chase down a target, rather than giving a debut to Sooryavanshi in a pressure game.
Ireland Likely to Stick With Winning Combination
Ireland produced a commanding all-round performance in the series opener. Despite missing several first-choice players, the young squad impressed with both bat and ball. According to ABP Live, the hosts have little reason to alter their winning XI for the second match.
Our Take: A Missed Opportunity for Sooryavanshi
In our view, leaving out Vaibhav Sooryavanshi again feels like a missed opportunity. India's batting struggled in the first T20I, and a fresh face could have brought energy to the lineup. However, with the series on the line, the team management is playing it safe. If India win the second T20I, the decision will look justified. But if the batting fails again, questions will be asked about why a promising young batter was kept on the bench.
